High Beam Headlights Explained

High beam headlights are the brighter lights that drivers use when traversing very dark roads. Unlike low beam headlights, they are rarely used. Most people use their low beams more than their high beams. 

This is due to the fact that high beam headlights tend to produce a bright light that can be dangerous for other motorists. It can cause glare and dazzle other drivers. As such, it’s only recommended to use your high beams on empty roads or country roads with no street lights. 

WHEN TO USE HIGH BEAM HEADLIGHTS

High beam headlights illuminate about 350 to 400 feet ahead of the car. This is twice as much as low beam headlights. All states require car owners to switch them off when another vehicle is approaching from about 500 feet. 

The law also requires high beams to be switched off within 200-300 feet of the vehicle in front. This is to prevent the bright light from reducing visibility for other drivers. Below are situations that require you to use your high beam headlights.

LOW VISIBILITY IN CITY ROADS

It can be frightening to drive through city roads that have minimum to no visibility. This is especially if you’re not familiar with the area. Having impaired vision can be unnerving. This is why it’s important to turn on your high beam headlights in such situations. 

Your high beams allow you to see 300 to 1000 feet ahead. They’ll help you to pick out obstacles and pedestrians easily. This prevents accidents and improves safety when driving at night. 

RURAL ROADS WITH NO STREET LIGHTS

It’s not uncommon to come across deserted country roads that do not have any street lights. Using your high beam headlights helps to spot wild animals that may be crossing the road or pedestrians taking a walk. 

One of the most important things to note is that it’s important to dim your lights when another vehicle approaches you. This helps to protect the other driver and maintain their visibility on the road. 

WHEN THERE ARE NO OTHER CARS ON THE ROAD

When driving at night, you may want to use your high beam headlights to improve your visibility and help see farther ahead. This is allowed only if there are no other vehicles on the road. 

High beams can help you see farther than 200 feet. This is especially where visibility is reduced significantly. Remember to switch them off and turn on your low beams when you get near other vehicles. 

WHEN NOT TO USE HIGH BEAM HEADLIGHTS 

Contrary to what most people may think, it is not recommended to use high beam headlights in adverse weather conditions or where there is smoke and dust. The light tends to reflect back to the driver and cause glare. 

It is best to use your high beams when the weather is clear. Stick to your low beams during fog, snow, or rain. They illuminate the ground and the road ahead without causing any glare. This improves your safety and ensures you don’t cause harm to other drivers. 

CONCLUSION

High beam headlights are ideal for dark roads, rural roads that have no street lights, and highways where there are no other vehicles. They can dazzle other drivers, so be sure to switch them off when driving alongside other motorists.